Tale of the Lost Boys

Tale of the Lost Boys is a captivating 2017 Filipino-Taiwanese film directed by Joselito Altarejos, with Oliver Aquino, Soda Voyu, and Joe Black Chou in pivotal roles. It explores the themes of self-discovery, kinship, and the parallel hardships of diverse cultures.

The film artfully blends drama and sensitive issues, creating a narrative that tugs at the heartstrings. It follows the chance meeting of two strangers, both from different cultural backgrounds, whose lives begin to intertwine in interesting and life-changing ways.

Oliver Aquino plays Alex, a Filipino mechanic living in Taipei, who spends his free time rendezvousing with his friend, Cris. The character of Alex is multi-dimensional; he maintains a tough exterior necessary to survive in his daily life while also wrestling with his undisclosed sexual orientation. Aquino uses this intricate basis to deliver a heart-touching performance, unveiling layer by layer the vulnerabilities and struggles of his character.

On the flip side, Soda Voyu gives life to Jerry, a Taiwanese native who works as a fundraiser for an indigenous tribe. Jerry is a quietly compelling character, dealing with internal strife concerning his cultural identity. He is torn between his traditional tribal roots and the cosmopolitan allure of Taipei. Voyu's portrayal of Jerry's ambivalence and his journey to rediscover his identity is both delicate and impactful.

The paths of these seemingly disparate individuals cross when Alex helps Jerry out from under a crashed motorcycle. This chance encounter sparks off an unlikely friendship, with both of them finding solace and companionship in their shared moments. Each character's story unfolds through their conversations, which range from light heartfelt banter to deep life-altering revelations.

The film is divided between the bustling cityscape of Taipei and the serene, lush greeneries of Taiwan's indigenous province. Both locations perfectly mirror the inner whispers of discontent that echo within Alex and Jerry. The city, symbolic of the ostensible modernity both characters are part of, also embodies the internal chaos and restlessness they are experiencing. On the other hand, the province represents their seeking for comfort, resolution, and an understanding of their true identities in their roots.

Director Joselito Altarejos was able to transform a simple story into an impactful visual narrative. The characterization is intense and realistic, rendering a moving portrayal of life's complexities, secrets, and realities. His storytelling approach is patient, allowing the narrative to unfold gradually in a way that respects the characters' individual storylines while allowing audiences to genuinely connect with them.

However, Tale of the Lost Boys is not just about the journey of two men. It very subtly incorporates the larger themes of societal stereotypes and prejudice. It broaches these societal issues in a sensitive but thought-provoking manner, causing the audience to introspect and become aware of their own preconceived notions.

As a supporting actor, Joe Black Chou gives a commendable performance. His portrayal of Cris, Alex's friend who also struggles with his own secrets, adds another layer to the narrative while giving depth to Alex's character.

The cinematography by Boy Yñiguez is captivating, imbuing the film with an enchanting visual aesthetic. From the neon-lit streets of Taipei to the captivating beauty of the tribal terrain, the film overflows with striking sequences that create a lasting impression. The film effectively seizes the quiet moments between its characters, contributing significantly to the overall emotional gravitas.

The sincere performances from Aquino and Voyu make the film intensely intimate and riveting. They bring life to two men each grappling with their own truth; their camaraderie and individual pursuits of self-discovery make for a compelling story.

Tale of the Lost Boys is a fine piece of cinema, carving out a narrative that tackles deep-rooted societal norms, identity crises, and personal battles. It engages its audiences with a potent mixture of introspection, reality, and heartbreak, leaving them to contemplate the true meaning of self-discovery and identity. In the end, it reveals that no matter how different our backgrounds and stories may appear, at the core, it's the human condition of longing, searching, and aspiring that unites us all.